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NEWS & UPDATES

Learn more about our one-of-a-kind community and check out the latest happenings, updates, and new photos.

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DISNEY CONNECTION

Learn more about your Disney Connection at Golden Oak, your go-to resource for the utmost immersion in carefree fun and memory makinng. LEARN MORE

 
Marceline View

Press Release: New Marceline Neighborhood in Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort Now on Sale

May 15, 2013
Luxury resort residential community sees growing demand for homes

Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (May 15, 2013) – Following brisk sales of homesites, Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort announced plans for its newest neighborhood, Marceline. Sale of the first 19 homesites will begin today.

As part of the Golden Oak community, Marceline residents will enjoy a lifestyle surrounded by the Walt Disney World Resort. This quiet, luxurious enclave is located in close proximity to Disney theme parks and recreation. Taking advantage of its natural setting, more than half of the Marceline homesites will offer water views and others will border on a nature preserve. Each homesite is approximately one-quarter acre in size and is within easy walking distance of Summerhouse, the private clubhouse for Golden Oak residents and their guests.

Marceline will showcase the same quality custom home building found throughout Golden Oak today, with residences drawing design and architectural inspiration from European and Caribbean influences. Buyers can select from three prestigious homebuilders to create custom homes ranging in size from approximately 3,800 to 4,500 square feet.

Golden Oak homes start at $1.6 million. Prices, inclusive of homesite, in the Marceline neighborhood will start at $1.7 million.

"We've been delighted by the positive response over the past 24 months," said Page Pierce, vice president of Disney Resort Real Estate Development. "Our first four Golden Oak neighborhoods are nearly sold out, so Marceline quite literally builds on that success."

Marceline is named after the Missouri town where Walt Disney grew up in the early part of the 20th century. Memories from those formative years profoundly influenced creative directions he took throughout his life.

Walt's animation legacy has roots in Marceline, where he first picked up a pencil and sketchpad to try his hand at drawing. The new Golden Oak neighborhood pays homage to that history with a planned sculpture park that will feature enchanting life-size sculptures of characters from Walt's animated masterpiece Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The sculptures are part of the exclusive Golden Oak "Disney Friends in Nature" sculpture series. Sophisticated interpretations of classic Disney animation will be found in parks and other common areas throughout the community.

"The sculpture series is just one example of subtle Disney touches artfully woven into the luxurious character of Golden Oak," Pierce said. "Our Disney Imagineers poured their talents into creating a community that's thoughtful in design, rich with details and home to a lifestyle like no other."

Marceline is just one of many new additions to Golden Oak. The recently opened Summerhouse, the private residential club facility, is the centerpiece of community activities and events. Reminiscent of a large Tuscan farmhouse, it offers delightful spaces for indoor and outdoor gatherings, a pool, fitness facilities with locker rooms, and a family game room. The Summerhouse restaurant and private lounge will debut later this year, offering dining in a casual, yet sophisticated environment.

Summerhouse is also home to Golden Oak Resident Services, the team that brings Disney's guest-service culture directly to residents. Resident Services can arrange personal, residential and resort requests. Services include assistance with travel and private transportation arrangements, tickets for Disney theme parks and special events, private VIP tours, golf tee-times, dinner reservations, and planning parties. It's like having a Fairy Godmother to handle every detail.

Golden Oak residents can also take advantage of "Disney Connection" amenities. These special services include door-to-park transportation to select locations at Walt Disney World Resort, Extra Magic Hours (at one Walt Disney World Resort theme park each day to enjoy select attractions), merchandise delivery from most Walt Disney World retail locations and discounts at all Walt Disney World golf courses.

For more information about Golden Oak, visit www.disneygoldenoak.com or call (407) 939-5593.

ABOUT GOLDEN OAK at WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT
Golden Oak brings together family, friends, and cherished Disney traditions in a unique, luxury residential resort community of single-family custom homes with prices starting at $1.6 million. To live at Golden Oak is to enjoy a year-round resort lifestyle that includes distinctive neighborhoods, expansive nature preserves, and an unsurpassed array of amenities and concierge-style resident services. The community's resort and recreation options include a private clubhouse and, scheduled to open in 2014, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort and a championship golf course.

Golden Oak offers a refined interpretation of resort living. Homesites are carefully placed to maximize privacy and landscape views, while home designs reflect the character and presence of century-old dwellings. Once fully developed, Golden Oak is anticipated to include approximately 450 homes and encompass 980 acres.
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods, Builder News, Marceline
 
Holiday Services View

Corona: A Custom Castle Fit for a Princess

March 27, 2013
Prepare to be dazzled by all that this Tuscan beauty from ISSA Homes has to offer. From the Latin word for "crown", the aptly named Corona is supremely fit for the Disney princess (or prince) in your life — along with family and friends.

The two-story foyer of the main house provides a regal entrance into a great room with Old World-style exposed wood beams soaring 13 feet above. An arched brick ceiling graces the breakfast area.

Drawing inspiration from the central courtyards of grand Mediterranean-style homes, sweeping main-floor interior spaces flow into an expansive open-air area designed for gracious outdoor living. Awaiting you and your guests are two spacious loggias with vaulted ceilings, each facing a courtyard with pool and spa.

One loggia has a grill area with room for outdoor dining, and one has a fireplace; both have retractable screens to make the most of Central Florida's temperate seasons.

Beyond the main-room vistas to the outdoor living areas are serene views to a neighboring greenspace, thoughtfully landscaped to shield your privacy.

The first-floor master suite features a splendid owners' retreat. Highlights include two walk-in closets, as well as two water closets and vanities.

Tucked away near the front of the home is a separate guest suite, where special Disney design touches, such as "hidden Mickeys", can be admired in the stone façade.

Situated in the gated neighborhood of Kimball Trace, this fine custom-built castle is the very essence of luxury and privacy — yet Summerhouse, the community's inviting clubhouse, is nearby.

Corona is ready to illumine a lifetime of get-togethers and memory-making for family and friends. Yours, perhaps?

Located at Lot 37 in the Kimball Trace neighborhood and currently priced at $1,998,655, highlights include:
  • 3,904 square feet of indoor living area
  • 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 1 powder room
  • Gourmet kitchen and breakfast area
  • Great room and separate multipurpose room
  • Outdoor living area with two screened loggias
  • Two-car garage and separate cart storage

Schedule a visit soon to discover Corona and the magnificent community of Golden Oak. Contact the sales associates of Golden Oak Realty today at 407.939.5577.

Take a closer look at Corona:
Click to view all floorplans.
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods, Kimball Trace, Builder News
 
Holiday Services View

Meet Josh Wild, Team Member of Golden Oak Resident Services

March 27, 2013
A Disney Cast Member for over 18 years, Josh Wild remembers the day he learned that Golden Oak would be bringing Disney's famed guest service culture to its residents as part of the community's amenities. Stepping through the door of the newly opened sales center, he recalls, "I knew then that Golden Oak was where I belonged."

Now a Resident Services Coordinator at Golden Oak, Josh recently met with The Leaf for a get-to-know-you chat.

Leaf: In a nutshell, tell us what you and your team do for the residents of Golden Oak.

Josh: I like to say we are "providing a world of fantasy with a taste of reality". To explain, while we are primarily the experts on how to enjoy your Disney experience of living the magic, we also connect our residents with what's beyond Walt Disney World® Resort.

We are a one-stop shop, right here in the center of the community. It is our job to know the residents, listen to their request or vision, and remember their likes and needs. From there we can connect them with the right resources for an experience that is seamless, efficient, and personalized.

Leaf: Sounds like you really get to know our residents.

Josh: We do. We are a small and mighty team. This allows us to develop strong relationships and trust, which allows us to give residents the attention they deserve.

Leaf: Give us an idea of a typical day for you.

Josh: While every day is different, the most highly used Resident Services offerings include developing personalized itineraries, organizing transportation and assisting with dining reservations throughout Walt Disney World® Resort. We also assist with hotel reservations and providing dining recommendations around Orlando. We are the resource to help new residents get acclimated with and enjoy community life as residents of central Florida.

Leaf: Can you elaborate a bit on what's a personalized itinerary?

Josh: Based on what we know about our residents and their requests, we will create an itinerary for a day or particular time frame at Walt Disney World® Resort. Things like recommending attractions, shows and dining experiences, and then making arrangements and reservations. Also, we provide them "tips to success" — ways to make the most of their experiences; for example, always go early to the parks.

Leaf: Tell us your most fun assignment thus far, or most unusual one — something that drew on all your skills and talents.

Josh: It would be one and the same, when I assisted a resident in getting her pet dog flown to their home overseas. It was quite a logistical challenge because many regulations and parties had to be coordinated and it involved two languages, but it was a lot of fun to navigate. The dog arrived home safe and sound, and the resident was greatly satisfied.

Leaf: Tell us what makes you uniquely suited for your job.

Josh: I will say my passion for great service. I enjoy making people happy. There's an overwhelming sense of accomplishment when someone comes to me with a question or concern, and I can satisfy them with a great resolution. Very motivating. I love making and maintaining great relationships, which I can do with Golden Oak residents since they make frequent and extended visits.

Leaf: Let's have fun with our last question. If you were a Disney character, which one would you be?

Josh: I've always said I was like Pumbaa from The Lion King. "A big guy with a big heart, and I love to have fun." The residents would agree. "Hakuna Matata!"

To learn more about Golden Oak Resident Services, click here.
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Disney Connection, Resident Services, Amenities, Homes
 
Holiday Services View

Update: Golden Oak Sculpture Series

March 27, 2013
Golden Oak residents can now wave to Ariel and Friends as they pass the fountain on Dream Tree Boulevard — and stop to admire them up close! They're the first in a series of Disney-character sculptures in our community that commemorate the theme, "Disney Friends in Nature".

And it won't be long before more of these charming bronze statues will arrive in our midst: the classic trio of Bambi, Thumper and Flower.

Reminiscent of their forest home in the movie Bambi, a natural setting along the entrance to the Carolwood neighborhood will provide the perfect location for this adorable threesome to call home and greet Golden Oak families and friends.

We'll keep you posted about their arrival — and how plans are progressing with sculpture number three, the lovely and beloved Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs!
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Resident Services, Silverbrook, Neighborhoods, Construction
 
Holiday Services View

Golden Oak residents can enjoy "Limited Time Magic"!

March 27, 2013
The 2013 Disney program, "Limited Time Magic," is all about surprising and delighting Guests at Walt Disney World® Resort in fanciful and unexpected ways. Throughout this calendar year, new entertainment and imaginative events will only happen at certain times of the year — so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities while they are here.

Here are a few of the 2013 "Limited Time Magic" experiences that Golden Oak residents and Guests can take to the limit:

  • Independence Week: It's red, white and blue as Disney Parks salutes America with a 4th of July Fireworks Party — for an entire week, with patriotic lighting bathing the Disney castles on both coasts. Mickey Mouse appears in his patriotic finest and Guests will find special USA shirts, Ear Hats and other limited-edition souvenirs.
  • Long Lost Friends Week: Lesser-known Disney characters will move from the shadows to the spotlight meet-and-greets on both coasts. Photo ops with characters that could include Flik, Clarabelle Cow, Remy, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum will surprise and delight Guests. And Disney Guests even have the chance to vote online for which characters they want to see.
  • Pirate Week: Why talk like a pirate one day when you could celebrate these scalawags all week long? The adventures of Jack Sparrow come to life like never before during a bicoastal buccaneer bash in which Walt Disney World® Resort becomes pirate-palooza: pirate bands, pirate meet-and-greets and more. Be sure to stop by the new attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios®: The Legend of Jack Sparrow.
  • Unleash the Villains: Friday the 13th in September 2013 is a special day, so Disneyland® Park and Disney's Hollywood Studios® are staying open until the 13th hour (1 a.m.). Maleficent, Captain Hook, Jafar and other Disney Villains host a dance party, complete with limited-edition merchandise and other nighttime mischief.

Visit the Disney Parks Blog on Fridays for announcements of the upcoming weekly surprises.

Guests and residents can check for updates on the Limited Time Magic website or search Twitter using the hashtag #LimitedTimeMagic.

*Select attractions, entertainment and services will be available. Subject to capacity restrictions and change without notice.
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Events
 
Holiday Services View

Home for the Holidays, Disney Style

November 30, 2012
If you've ever visited Walt Disney World® Resort during the winter holiday season, you know that the decorations are some of the most enchanting on earth. For generations of families, it's a cherished tradition to celebrate this special time amid the beauty, magic and cheer of Disney.

Now, imagine that the same talented Disney Cast Members who transform Walt Disney World® Resort and Disney Cruise Line ships into dazzling winter wonderlands could do the same for your home. Imagine having them design your own custom decorations well in advance of the holidays, so when the season arrives you can relax and enjoy the beauty.

For the residents of Golden Oak, that dream can be a reality. That's because enjoying access to Walt Disney World® Holiday Services is yet one more example of the benefits of living here.

Tapping into Disney connections like this for-fee service starts with the Golden Oak Resident Services team, which uses a concierge-style approach to assist families with personal, residential and resort requests.

That's what Golden Oak resident Jan did. "The holidays are very important in our family and with Disney's vast resources, no one does it better," she told The Leaf. "Resident Services arranged for us to meet with Lisa from Holiday Services and the result was pure magic".

Added Lisa: "Like all the families we've met at Golden Oak, Jan's family has a wonderful passion for Disney and the holiday season. She asked us to fabricate custom décor for the interior and exterior of their home, using a traditional style with adornments like magnolias, crystals and elegant ribbon."

Jan and Lisa walked through the house, talking about the themes and colors, tree placement, garlands, centerpieces and exterior design approaches. Lisa pulled from a basket of sample decorations to help convey some of her ideas, such as including olive branches to give the exterior décor a Tuscan feel, to complement the architectural style of Golden Oak. Then Lisa's team got to work.

"When the concept was ready for our review, Lisa sent a digital presentation," Jan recalls, "It was like opening a present early. The photos that Lisa had taken of our home during her visit now included stunning ideas for holiday décor. I couldn't wait to see it all come together."

Jan credits the individualized attention from Lisa and her team as well as the Resident Services team for making the process seamless. And Jan tells us that their home is now a lovely reflection of "the great attention to detail that helps Disney theme parks come alive with the holiday spirit."
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Disney Connection, Resident Services, Amenities, Homes
 
Food & Wiine View

Dining Around the World, Close to Home

November 30, 2012
With the arrival of fall, the Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival came to Walt Disney World® Resort, with nearly 30 international food and beverage Marketplaces, cooking demonstrations, wine seminars and signature dining with celebrated chefs.

And for one family of four at Golden Oak-dad Paul, mom Gina and daughters Lindsay and Ally-dining their way around the world at this year's Food & Wine Festival was all the more special now that they're living the magic within Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort.

Things got off to a great start with the advance assistance of Golden Oak Resident Services Coordinators Josh and Erin. "They arranged our event reservations with the food and wine representatives. We were able to participate in all the events we requested," Gina said. "It was a wonderfully smooth experience."

Getting to and from the festival was easy, thanks to the dedicated door-to-park transportation provided by Golden Oak-- a favorite benefit of those living here.

For one delectable week, family members immersed themselves in a food and wine lover's paradise, including the Italy Food and Wine Pairing, Mexico Tequila Tasting, Culinary Demonstration with Chef (and TLC 'Cake Boss') Buddy Valastaro and a Grand Marnier® tasting. Capping off one evening was Disney's Dessert Discovery and a V.I.P. viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.

The family's favorite event? The unforgettable Party for the Senses, where they wandered among tempting tasting stations, enjoyed live music and were awed by the spectacular Cirque du Soleil® performers.

We asked Gina for tips for other families who want to attend next year's Food & Wine Festival. Her answer is just what her family will do their fourth time around: "Start planning early, select your favorite events and get ready to enjoy."

And if you call Golden Oak home, the Resident Services staff that Gina describes as "so accommodating" can help you out from start to finish. Now that's living the magic.

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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Disney Connection, Events, Resident Services, Homes, Amenities
 
Resident Services View

Golden Oak: Where Disney's Guest Service Culture Comes to You

November 30, 2012
Living the magic at Golden Oak includes having your own Resident Services team to assist with your personal, residential and resort requests. "Our goal," the team tells us, "is to make sure that our residents have all the options right at their fingertips to make living in Golden Oak as personalized and seamless as possible." Resident Services Manager Jamie Kneebone tells us more.

Leaf: As featured in this edition of the Leaf, Walt Disney World® Holiday Services has been working their magic at some of the homes of Golden Oak. Tell us more.
Jamie Kneebone: Holiday Services will custom create for a Golden Oak home the same kinds of incredible holiday décor so admired at Walt Disney World® Parks and Resorts and on Disney Cruise Ships. This is a very special service available to Golden Oak residents for a fee.

How does this work? We arrange for a Cast Member from Holiday Services to consult with a resident at their home. This happens early in the year--usually between the months of February to June, when Holiday Services is designing and planning the décor for all of its locations. After the visit, Holiday Services develops custom designs to fulfill the resident's vision.

To ensure the process is a smooth experience for our residents, we provide a list of potential vendors who can assist the residents with the installation of the decorations after delivery, along with their removal and storage.

Leaf: What's really fantastic is that this is only one of the services available from Walt Disney World® Resort that Golden Oak homeowners can access through Resident Services.
Jamie: That's right! We're their onsite Disney experts. Many of the services that we link Golden Oak residents to are those they enjoyed as Guests in our resorts or theme parks. Whether sending flowers with some Disney flair from our Florists or working with The Disney Event Group to create a Princess-themed birthday party at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Golden Oak Resident Services is here to help create those magical moments. Just about anything you can dream, we can make happen.

Leaf: Of course, Resident Services is ready to handle residents' everyday requests as well. Give us some examples.
Jamie: Popular requests include Disney parks and special-event ticket purchasing, dining reservations, resort reservations, arranging private VIP tours and assistance with itinerary planning. We can also help with personal services by providing residents with a contact list of local vendors that provide pet care, dry cleaning delivery, car rental, and many other services while at Golden Oak. During the initial move-in process, we provide residents a community orientation as well as a list of potential resources that can help with home care and personal property management.

Leaf: Sounds like a good time to hear first hand from Jan, a Golden Oak resident, whose story appears in the Holiday Services article of the Leaf: "I love having the Resident Services team here, because it allows me to carry on with my days knowing that any concern or question I have will be taken care of."
Jamie: That's what we do best and truly enjoy.
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Disney Connection, Events, Resident Services, Tours, VIP, Homes, Amenities
 
Ariel Sculpture View

Golden Oak Sculpture Series is About to Make a Splash!

November 30, 2012
Golden Oak will soon be welcoming famous mermaid Ariel and Friends to the community!

The arrival of Ariel, Flounder and Sebastian will mark the first of a series of bronze sculptures around Golden Oak. The series is themed Disney Friends in Nature, celebrating the relationship among the residents of Golden Oak, the environment and our beloved Disney characters.

While brainstorming the idea of a collection of distinctive sculptures for Golden Oak, Walt Disney Imagineers were inspired by the iconic statue of Ariel found at Ariel's Grotto in Disneyland® Resort. Ariel joined Disneyland® Resort to commemorate The Little Mermaid, giving a home to the film that launched the second Golden Age of Disney Animation. With their first scene in hand, the next step was to decide where the sculptures would call home at Golden Oak.

Before long, Ariel and Friends will have the perfect home in front of the fountain on Dream Tree Boulevard, near the entrance to the Silverbrook neighborhood. Other classic Disney characters, including Bambi, Thumper and Flower, along with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, are also planned for locations in the community.

"Ariel and Friends brings a little piece of Disney's storytelling into the Golden Oak community," said Page Pierce, Vice President. "It's another special touch to underscore the magic of living at this extraordinary place."

We're thrilled to have such delightful personalities among our neighbors of Golden Oak. If you're planning on visiting Golden Oak soon, be sure stop by and see Ariel and Friends!

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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Resident Services, Silverbrook, Neighborhoods, Construction
 
Summerhouse View

Golden Oak Clubhouse Now Partially Open!

August 16, 2012
It seems like just yesterday when Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck helped us celebrate the groundbreaking for Summerhouse, our clubhouse at Golden Oak. Now fast-forward about a year to another exciting milestone, the official partial opening of this beautiful and meticulously built community hub!

Golden Oak residents and their guests have already begun to enjoy some of the key amenities of Summerhouse - like its lap and family pool, family room with game area and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Other amenities such as the private lounge and restaurant are set to open later this year.

Centrally located on approximately 5 acres, Summerhouse makes a striking impression with its Tuscan farmhouse design theme. A Mediterranean color palette and building materials - such as natural stone, plaster, heavy timbers, artisanal tiles and reclaimed old bricks - are warm, welcoming, and true to the architectural influences of the community.

Inside the well-appointed clubhouse, the main dining room will be crowned with an Old World-style bell tower; nearby will be a lounge, private dining room, custom-built wine cooler and locker space for spirits. The demonstration kitchen will be outfitted for chef-helmed cooking events, while the inviting family room with large TV screen offers a comfortable place for gaming and hanging out. Alongside the fitness facilities, with private training area and locker rooms, is an outdoor lawn for fitness activities.

The Golden Oak Resident Services desk is conveniently located inside Summerhouse. Members of our Resident Services team, who bring the Disney guest service culture directly to residents and their guests, are available to help arrange personal, residential and resort requests.

Emphasizing the outdoor living experience so intrinsic to life at Golden Oak, Summerhouse effortlessly melds inside with outside, day into night. A center courtyard, with fountain and trellised brick walkways, leads to the heated pool, function lawn, fire pit, al fresco dining and more.

Along with an inspired calendar of events for children and adults - such as culinary adventures and special themed and seasonal activities - Summerhouse will soon bring a special kind of magic to Golden Oak.
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Categories: Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Disney Connection, Events, Resident Services, Summerhouse, Tours, VIP
 
Welcome to the Neighborhood View

Welcome to the Neighborhood

August 16, 2012
Twenty-four years ago at Walt Disney World® Resort, young honeymooners Lorrie and Elliott began a family tradition of magical Disney vacations. Now, as the proud parents of three and the owners of a gorgeous residence at Golden Oak, these Midwesterners are delighted to call Walt Disney World® Resort home.

Leaf: How did you find out about Golden Oak, and what clinched your decision to build a home here?
Elliott: We initially learned of Golden Oak from an article I found online. My family's first reaction was, "When can we get started!" Not long after, when our son Brandon and his wife moved to Florida and our daughter Makenzy said her dream was to work for Disney after she graduated college, that pretty much sealed the deal for us.

Leaf: We hear that your family likes to vacation with Disney Cruise Line.
Elliott: We love to go on Disney Cruises. We have been on several, including the inaugural cruise of the Disney Dream. I remember the first time we rode the Aquaduck on the Dream, going out over the ship looking down at the ocean. It was a blast! We love the fact that Disney does things first class and the cruises are no exception.

It will be a great convenience to be able to come down and relax in our home at Golden Oak around the times we have a cruise booked. Just to be able to take our time getting over to the ship and having the packing be much easier will be a nice perk.

Leaf: Tell us, what in particular about Golden Oak is your family really looking forward to?
Elliott: Coming from the Midwest, we enjoy staying in Florida during the coldest months of winter. (Brrrrr!) We also plan to have special holiday gatherings with friends and family as often as possible.

We really are excited to be part of something we believe will provide a lifetime of memories. What other place could be better for that than a community at Disney, where all the residents will have the same common theme of family, fun and Disney?

My advice to anyone who is thinking about buying a home at Golden Oak is, Do it! Life can get so complicated at times, and it's family and friends sharing time together that really matters most.

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Categories: Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Disney Connection, Neighborhoods, VIP, Homes
 
Lot 7, Casa de Verano View

One-on-one With A Golden Oak Homebuilder: The Series Concludes

August 16, 2012
In this issue, we wrap up our series of conversations with our Golden Oak homebuilders. We are pleased to spotlight some of the qualities and thinking that make them people we are proud to know and work with.

J. Richard Watson Construction Company, Inc.
Leaf: What is your favorite part in the process of homebuilding?
Rick Watson: Creativity, and working with our homeowners. There's nothing like meeting a new homeowner for the first time, hear about their dreams and wishes, and then seeing the satisfaction and pleasure when they walk into their new home.

Leaf: What's the most valuable lesson you learned on your path to becoming a successful homebuilder?
Rick Watson: I don't think I am personally any different than I was when I first started to build my company. Building practices and technology have changed over the years, but being a successful builder still requires adherence to three principles: hard work, honesty, and always treating people the way you want them to treat you. Abiding by these principles has afforded us the opportunity to build homes for the same families a second and even third time. In fact, right now I am building two homes that are the second time around for both homeowners, so I think our approach to creating custom homes is resonating with our clients.

Leaf: As you've gotten to know all that's going into the Golden Oak community, name something that made you think, "Wow - that is really cool," and why?
Rick Watson: It's kind of hard to single out one, because the whole concept is such a "wow". One of our prospective clients from Texas were here for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and staying at Disney's Contemporary Resort. As I drove to visit them, I passed Golden Oak on Vista Boulevard, and as I came by Disney's Wilderness Lodge and passed under the Monorail, a wonderful memory hit home: I saved my money to come here for my very first vacation, and now I get to build homes here. The fact that families can now live in Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort is really unbelievable.
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Categories: Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods, Silverbrook, Carolwood Reserve, Carolwood, Builder News
 
Lot 11, Casa Arezzo View

Spotlight on Casa Arezzo: Grand Living in Iconic Style

August 16, 2012
Like its legendary wines, the Tuscany region of Italy has been long admired for its architecture. And, in fact, the iconic Tuscan style of the splendid Casa Arezzo in Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort originated in the rustic stone barns of provincial Arezzo, where growers made and stored their wines.

Casa Arezzo is a stunning and modern interpretation of its namesake's tradition of converting these centuries-old barns to grand homes. This artful creation from Ray Coudriet Builder, Inc. exudes beauty and timeless design, while epitomizing the best of contemporary living.

Soaring main rooms, one-and-a-half stories tall, provide open settings for convivial cooking, dining, entertaining and relaxed gatherings. Each enjoys prime views of-and ready access to-the central courtyard with pool, cabana, spa and summer kitchen.

Offering a contrasting sense of retreat are the single-story private living areas which flank the main "stone barn" structure. To one side is the separate owner's suite with a sumptuous bathroom and chambered walk-in closets; to the other, four sizable bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms await family and guests.

At Casa Arezzo, the classical beauty of the simple, natural and authentic is accentuated with top-of-the-line materials and finishes. "We wanted the home to have a feeling like it is a very established, classic estate home," says Morgan Luton of Ray Coudriet Builder, Inc., "but with all the most current, luxurious features, such as custom cabinetry, exotic marbles, wide-plank wood floors, wine closet, stone fireplaces, Venetian plaster walls, custom wall upholstery and even a silver-leaf ceiling."

Located at Lot 11 in the Silverbrook neighborhood and currently priced at $3,495,000, highlights include:
  • 5,839 square feet of indoor living area
  • 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 2 powder rooms
  • Gourmet kitchen and wine closet
  • Living room, family room and game room
  • Courtyard with pool, cabana, summer kitchen
  • Three-car garage

Schedule a visit soon to discover Casa Arezzo and the magnificent community of Golden Oak. Contact the sales associates of Golden Oak Realty today at 407.939.5577.

~|~

Take a closer look at Casa Arezzo:
Click to view floorplans.
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Categories: Builder News, Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods, Carolwood, Carolwood Reserve, Silverbrook
 
Four Seasons Resort View

Four Seasons Resort on the Horizon

August 16, 2012
Construction is underway at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort as the 11th floor emerges from the 26 acre site adjacent to Disney's Osprey Ridge Golf Course. One can already see the infrastructure taking shape for the 444-room resort which will feature a conference centre, several exciting dining outlets, a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, a full-service luxurious spa and fitness centre as well as various pools. The resort is currently on track to open in 2014.
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Categories: Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Four Seasons, Amenities
 
Casa Arezzo View

One-on-one with Two More Golden Oak Homebuilders

May 18, 2012
In the third installment of this series, we find out how two of our builders' deep admiration of Walt Disney World® Resort inspires them both professionally and personally.

Ray Coudriet of Ray Coudriet Builder, Inc.
Leaf: Here at Golden Oak, we are all about celebrating family and Disney traditions. Tell us, how does tradition play a role in your company?
Ray Coudriet: One of the things that reminds me of tradition is the original, hand-drawn blueprint for Cinderella's Castle, which hangs on my office wall. I often look at it and am inspired by all the tradition it stands for. To see how Disney people put something on paper like that and then built it up so beautifully, creating such lasting traditions, has always inspired me to do the same with the architecture of our homes. It reminds me of where this area started and has grown to, and the way my business has started and grown to within just a couple miles of this.

Leaf: What do you think is one of the most notable impacts of technology on how homes are designed and built these days?
Ray: What's so nice about technology now is that we're able to show buyers what a house will look like three dimensionally before it's ever been built. They can literally see the finished colors and details, even fly around the house - things that buyers sometimes can't understand by looking at blueprints. Technology can reduce the need for changes later on, and really helps with efficiency.

Leaf: Golden Oak homes feature some beautiful interpretations of architectural styles. Tell us your favorite example of architecture in the Walt Disney World® Resort parks and why.
Ray: When I was a kid and first came here when Walt Disney World® Resort opened, a lot of my friends were wowed by the rides, or this or that. What excited me was the detail in the architecture that Disney created. They kept opening up different parks, like Epcot®, and that architecture was so detailed. Disney does it right. I like to build homes with this same attention to detail, so it's a great blend between us.

Don Hempel of Issa Homes
Leaf: What's the most valuable lesson you learned on your path to becoming a successful homebuilder?
Don Hempel: It's really about listening to the customer, engaging with them and being able to give them what they're asking for. Whether or not it's a new experience for them, they look to us for guidance throughout the process. A client might think they want something before they know the cost or if the request really adds any value to their investment. I try to guide them in their decision-making by putting a value on their requests, whether it's monetary, functionality or practicality, and attempt to give them what they want that fits their lifestyle, budget and needs.

Leaf: As you've gotten to know all that's going into the Golden Oak community, name something that made you think, "Wow - that is really cool," and why?
Don: The whole concept of Golden Oak offering a limited collection of homes in such close proximity to the Disney theme parks. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, with just about 450 homesites. Once the homes are finished, so is that chapter in Golden Oak history. To me that is pretty cool.

Leaf: Tell us your favorite example of architecture in the Walt Disney World® Resort parks and why.
Don: One of the things Disney does so well is their focus on architecture and how they execute to a high level of detail. As much as I like Disney's Grand Floridian, when I go to Disney's Wilderness Lodge, I kind of get a nostalgic feeling for growing up in New Jersey and going camping up in the Adirondacks in upstate New York.
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Categories: Builder News, Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods
 
Russ and Lorrie, along with family View

Welcome to the Neighborhood

May 18, 2012
When they first visited Walt Disney World® Resort in 1972, Russ and Lorrie couldn't have imagined that forty years later, they'd be building a gorgeous home there. Now a three-generation family, they told The Leaf, "We cannot think of a more positive and happy place to spend time with the people we love" than at Golden Oak.

Leaf: How long has your family been coming to Walt Disney World® Resort?
Russ: My wife and I first visited in 1972 as college students. We could not have imagined then the growth that would take place over the years until we came back in 1982 to share the magic of Disney with our year-old daughter, Amy. This was the beginning of our family's passion for Disney and we have not missed a year since. Our son was born in 1983. They both like to brag about having been there every year of their life.

Leaf: What clinched your decision to build a home in Golden Oak?
Russ: We visited Golden Oak as a family in November 2010. We were literally on our way to the airport to fly home when we stopped by without an appointment. We were graciously welcomed by one of the sales agents, who took the time to explain the concept and the future of the development. The commitment Disney was showing to making this a very special place to live really impressed us. We left for the airport with an armful of literature and excitement. One year later, we all gathered together with our new granddaughter to break ground on our future home in Golden Oak.

Leaf: What are some of the ways your family will be using the home? Do you already have friends and relatives planning to visit?
Russ: For now, this will be a second home for us that we will come to and gather for holidays and spend time away from our hectic lives back in the Midwest (including the snow and sub-zero temperatures). We want everyone to feel like they are on vacation when they walk through the doors. In the future, it may be a place that my wife and I will retire to and if that happens, we know that there will be no problem keeping the guest house filled with family and friends! For myself, I feel like I am leaving a legacy behind for generations to come. It is comforting to know that someday my great-great-great grandchildren will be enjoying this home and will know who built it for them.

Leaf: Lastly, what piece of advice would you give to families thinking about buying a home at Golden Oak?
Russ: We cannot think of a more positive and happy place to spend time with the people we love. Taking advantage of the opportunity to live at Walt Disney World® Resort is an honor and a privilege and something that is sure to always have value to us. It is an investment not just in a monetary way, but an investment in your family's happiness and a way to share "The Happiest Place on Earth" with future generations.
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Categories: Construction, Disney Connection, Homes, Golden Oak Leaf, Tours
 
Golden Oak Flyover Video View

A Vision Comes to Life: the Golden Oak Flyover Video

May 18, 2012
Are you curious to see a bird's eye view of just how close Golden Oak is to Cinderella Castle? Would you like an armchair preview of the initial phase at Golden Oak, including its gorgeous neighborhoods, magnificent homes and inviting amenities?

Then take a look at the new video about Golden Oak! Created to bring the vision of Golden Oak to astonishingly detailed life, the video uses advanced flyover animation and illustration to provide an overview of what the community is planned to look like at a future date. Click to watch the video and see what a beautiful oasis of fine living Golden Oak will be.
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Tours, Amenities, Neighborhoods, Carolwood, Carolwood Reserve, Silverbrook, Kimball Trace, Construction, Four Seasons, Homes, Resident Services, Summerhouse
 
Lot 18, Tuscan Sun – Built By Jones-Clayton Construction View

At Home in the Tuscan Sun

February 02, 2012

No wonder a stay in a Tuscany villa is on many a bucket list. You, family and friends... gathered at a grand, picturesque home... in a famed, sun-kissed setting. Now that's la dolce vita – the sweet life.

Actually, that sounds like a typical day at the Tuscan Sun, a stunning and creatively appointed, whole-ownership estate home right here in our magnificent community of Golden Oak. And it's now ready for one ideal family to live the sweet life at Walt Disney World® Resort.

True to the architectural influences of Golden Oak, the Tuscan Sun radiates Old World authenticity and charm – but is clearly a New World creation throughout. As custom homebuilder, Rial Jones of Jones-Clayton Construction tells us, "Many of the design aspects of the home were taken from trend-setting resort hotels in South Florida, California and Europe... colorful, light and playful inside."

Indeed, the inspiration for some of the home's most dazzling features comes from far-flung travels and exotic locales: a poolside bedroom designed to feel like a floating cabana in Bali. A modern, glass-encased wine room, as seen in a 200-year-old Barcelona building and of striking contrast to its traditional surroundings. A stone-clad, master-bath double shower that evokes a tropical spa experience in Thailand.

"The goal," Rial explains, "was to make the homeowners feel like they are living in a high-end resort property while enjoying the privacy of their own home."

Browse the photo gallery of this extraordinary retreat, and you'll see what a beautiful accomplishment it is. Priced at $3,450,000 and located at Lot 18 in the Silverbrook neighborhood, additional highlights include:

  • 6,788 square feet of indoor living area
  • 5 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, 2 powder rooms
  • Expansive kitchen
  • Central courtyard with pool, cabana and swim-up bar, summer kitchen and full bath
  • Owner's suite with large walk-in closet and morning kitchen
  • Separate guest suite with courtyard and pool views
  • Three-car garage

Are you ready to be at home in the Tuscan Sun? Embraced by luxury, privacy and the magic of Disney?

Then we invite you to come discover all that this exquisite home – and the community of Golden Oak – have to offer. Contact the sales associates of Golden Oak Realty at 407.939.5577 to schedule a visit soon.

Take a closer look at the Tuscan Sun.
Click to view floorplans.
Click to view the virtual tour.
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Categories: Builder News, Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Tours, Silverbrook
 
Jim surprises his wife Sabrina with an unexpected Christmas gift. View

A Christmas Gift to Last a Lifetime

February 02, 2012

Nothing prepared Sabrina for the Christmas gift her husband Jim surprised her with. On the chilly morning of December 8th, Jim presented her with a gift box wrapped in Tinker Bell Christmas paper. "I had an inkling of what it might be, and told Jim 'I think I'm going to cry'," she said. When she saw the Golden Oak logo and welcome letter, she knew that Jim had once again "totally wowed" her – by purchasing a homesite at Golden Oak.

Family times at Walt Disney World® Resort with children and grandchildren were always a "must do" for Sabrina. And juggling the schedules of five children and five grandchildren in Ohio and North Carolina gave her and Jim the chance to visit Disney parks several times each year. With all their visits here, the couple became Disney Vacation Club members and in 2009, started looking for a vacation home close to Walt Disney World® Resort. None of the homes they saw suited their needs.

After two years of looking, Golden Oak popped up on their radar screen during a 2011 trip to Florida. In mid November of this year, they returned for another visit for Sabrina's birthday. Just two weeks after, Jim decided he wanted to purchase the homesite and give it to Sabrina as a Christmas gift. Sabrina immediately fell in love with the idea of owning a home at Walt Disney World® Resort and now tells everyone, "It's a fairytale come true!"

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Categories: Disney Connection, Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Tours, VIP
 
Da Vinci — Built by CAHILL View

One-on-one with Golden Oak Homebuilders: The Conversations Continue

February 02, 2012

It takes a special caliber of professional and a special kind of person to be a homebuilder at Golden Oak. In this latest installment of our Q & A series, two more of our homebuilders share some revealing insights about what has been for both a lifelong calling.


Rial Jones of Jones-Clayton Construction
Leaf: What inspired you to become a homebuilder?
Rial Jones: I've always had an interest in construction and design. When I was 13 or 14 years old, I was mapping out the Parade of Homes route as to what houses to go see. I would get my mom to drive me around to the homes. When my family moved to Orlando in 1964, my dad bought a house from Charles Clayton who at the time was a big builder there. When I turned 18, I got my real estate license and began selling custom homes for that same gentleman. By age 21 or 22 I had realized it would be more fun to be in his shoes, so I started building.

Leaf: What part of your work do you find the most rewarding?
Rial: Being able to be part of something that is really special to a family means a lot. We're involved in what is, in many cases, the most significant thing going on in their lives - building a new house that the kids are going to grow up in and remember all their lives. Just recently, because of a family's religious beliefs, building the house had to start at a certain time on a certain day, which happened to be Sunday at 8 a.m. So eight o'clock Sunday morning we were out there on-site with our shovels, turning over the first mounds of dirt. The kids and all their extended family were there and they were taking pictures. It was really neat.

Leaf: What's the best advice you could offer to Golden Oak buyers about choosing the right builder?
Rial: Quite honestly, all of the builders at Golden Oak have talented enough teams to build whatever anybody wants to come up with. So I think the most important thing is how you click personally. When you first meet your builder, if you feel comfortable with them and you click, then that's a pretty sure sign that it will be a successful, enjoyable relationship. It is a bit of a marriage, if you will. You're normally designing your house for two to three months and then you're building it for 12-14 more. You'll get to know your builder pretty well.

Steve Cahill of CAHILL
Leaf: Here at Golden Oak, we are all about celebrating family and Disney traditions. Tell us, how does tradition play a role in your company?
Steve Cahill: I believe traditions, within CAHILL, translate to our core values. We have a tradition of giving 100% in everything that we do, setting realistic budgets and providing on-time delivery of new houses to our homeowners. Additionally, the tradition of "people" runs deep in the DNA of CAHILL. Judd Webster has been with me since 1980 and my son Chad has been with me since 2004. We know each other well and we enjoy working together.

Leaf: What inspired you to become a builder and then to focus on custom homebuilding?
Steve: Building a house is like creating three-dimensional art. As a builder, I get to dream big - and then watch the dream become a reality. I have the opportunity to provide families with a house that they will soon make their home - by making memories with their family and by finding rest and rejuvenation there. We love what we do!

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Categories: Builder News, Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods
 
Breaking ground on December 6th for Four Seasons Resort <em>Orlando at Walt Disney World&reg;<em> Resort. Photo by Joe Woolhead View

Press Release: Construction Begins on Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort

December 06, 2011

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Dec. 6, 2011) — Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts kicked off construction of its luxury resort at Walt Disney World Resort today, in a groundbreaking ceremony with joint venture partners Silverstein Properties and Dune Real Estate Partners. The 444-room resort, being built in the enclave of Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort, will create about 2,000 construction jobs, and hundreds of resort positions when open.

"Travelers around the world know and trust Four Seasons, and Walt Disney World is the world's premiere family vacation destination," said Meg Crofton, president Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Operations US & France. "Together, our two companies offer a brand-new reason to visit and experience Central Florida."

With an opening anticipated in 2014, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort will feature several dining venues including a rooftop restaurant with Magic Kingdom views; a 14,000 square foot spa; fitness center; three pools and a "lazy river"; sports and recreational facilities; meeting and event space plus a business center.

Kathleen Taylor, President and CEO of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, spoke of the relationship with Disney: "Each of us is dedicated to creating a product of the highest quality and standards, something that will become a landmark here in Orlando, and a destination unto itself for travelers from all over the world. It is truly a one-of-a-kind project and Central Florida will be a valuable addition to our family of resorts, particularly since this is a destination our guests already enjoy."

The development will encompass the existing Tom Fazio-designed Osprey Ridge 18-hole championship golf course, which will be renovated and subsequently managed by Four Seasons. The first Four Seasons in Central Florida is located within the Golden Oak residential community at Walt Disney World Resort.

Larry Silverstein, president and CEO of Silverstein Properties, recalled making the decision to back the project. "At the end of the day, it became apparent that the concept was right; that the team superb; the location first class and the two names - Four Seasons and Disney - as good as you can get," he said.

PHOTO:
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Larry Silverstein, president and CEO of Silverstein Properties, Mickey Mouse, Meg Crofton, president, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Operations, U.S. and France, and Kathleen Taylor, president and CEO of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

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Categories: Construction, Four Seasons, Golden Oak Leaf, Events
 
Be right at home with Golden Oak Resident Services View

Be Right at Home with Golden Oak Resident Services

October 28, 2011

One of the signature amenities of Golden Oak isn't even a place or a thing. But it is becoming quite the attraction, because it brings Disney's renowned guest service culture directly to homeowners and their guests.


Introducing our Resident Services team. Led by Manager and longtime Disney Cast Member Jamie Kneebone, the team is specially trained to assist with personal, residential and resort requests.


Say, for example, you need help with holiday decorating for your Golden Oak home, along with getting some Disney Parks and special event tickets. Or maybe you want to arrange a VIP Tour at the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks for you and several guests, then top off the day with a special-occasion dinner at a Walt Disney World® Resort restaurant. Services are available la carte for a fee*.


Just gather your list of Want Tos and Must Dos - and hand them to the team who can orchestrate them into Well Dones. Using a fee-based, concierge-style approach, Jamie and her colleagues will manage your requests while providing helpful suggestions and information along the way.


As she tells us, "We are committed to delivering personalized service and facilitating unforgettable Disney experiences. The Resident Services team will be your Disney Connection, ready and at your service."


Jamie's enthusiasm is matched by the knowledge and skills that come with having worked in many different roles and locations for Disney. She and her team look forward to getting to know Golden Oak families and are as easy to reach as a phone call, e-mail or personal visit - and, as of summer 2012, at the Resident Services desk in Summerhouse.


To learn more about Resident Services, click here.

*Fees are subject to change.
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Categories: Amenities, Disney Connection, Golden Oak Leaf, Resident Services
 
Sam, Lois and their children in 2011 View

Welcome to the Neighborhood

October 28, 2011

Excitement and anticipation are in the air at Golden Oak as more families are settling in. Among those looking forward to enjoying an incredible home base for celebrating Disney traditions and the upcoming holidays are new residents Sam and Lois, joining us from the Northeast U.S. The proud parents of three children (Cheryl, Sam III and Christine) and seven grandchildren, these avid Disney fans took some time from their busy move-in preparations to chat with The Leaf.


Leaf: How long has your family been coming to Walt Disney World?
Sam: Since 1976. In total, we've made at least 65 trips down and back at 1,200 miles both ways. There has been a very interesting progression. The first trip we took, we slept in a tent at Fort Wilderness. We had a great time and said maybe we'll come back in five or six years. Two or three weeks after we got home, we were reminiscing about the fun times we had. Right then, we made the decision to visit the next year.

Our third year we bought a pop-up trailer. We used that for about three or four years and then went through quite a few motor homes. Towards the last 10-12 years, we were coming down three or four times a year with the children and grandchildren. They just don't make a motor home big enough for seven grandchildren and eight adults. This made us think, "Why don't we buy a home down here?"

Leaf: What attracted you to Golden Oak?
Sam: I read about it in the Wall Street Journal. What better way to be a part of Disney than to live at Golden Oak? We have so many fond memories of Disney. It's the common ground that our family can all discuss and understand and share experiences with.

Leaf: Tell us what clinched your decision to purchase a home here.
Sam: Within days of talking with a Golden Oak Sales Associate, Lois was on a plane to put down our deposit. A couple weeks later, we came back to figure out what we wanted to buy, as we weren't sure if we would buy a homesite or a spec house. We interviewed three builders, which worked out very well as one of them was building the house we had in mind. We were lucky; the sequence of events happened in just the right order.

It's been an absolute pleasure working with our builder. Hundreds of companies say they practice partnerships, but very few actually do! This has been the best buying experience that I have ever had.

Leaf: How have your family and friends reacted?
Sam: Everybody is extremely excited.
Lois: They're all coming when we're moving in! Our favorite time at Disney is Christmas, so we can't wait to be here to celebrate the holidays.
Sam: It will be enjoyable having everybody around. This house will be in our family for a very long time.
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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Resident Services, VIP
 
Lot 42, Villa d'Este &#8212; Built by Goehring & Morgan Construction, Inc. View

One-on-one with Golden Oak Homebuilders

October 28, 2011

Spend just a few minutes with any of the Golden Oak homebuilders and you'll see they're as interesting and likeable as they are outstanding professionals. To give you a preview, The Leaf recently sat down with them for some builder Q&A. Starting with this issue, we kick off a series of the highlights of our conversations.


Kim Goehring and Chris Morgan of Goehring & Morgan Construction, Inc.
Leaf: What is your favorite part in the process of homebuilding?
Chris Morgan: Delivering the product. It's just that creative process of watching something unfold for our clients and watching all our craftsmen use their talents on the jobs.

Our average subcontractor has been with us 20 years. Some go back as far as 30 to 40 years, when Kim's dad started in the business. Show them a picture of something you want that's never been done, and watch them respond. They love it! They push themselves to become better and better and better. -That's what custom homebuilding is about.

Leaf: Here at Golden Oak, we are all about celebrating family and Disney traditions. Tell us, how does tradition play a role in your company?
Chris: First of all, it's a family business. Kim chose to follow his dad into the business and his daughter is in the business with him now. My son Chuck chose to go to the University of Florida Construction school and then he came back to work with us. That's the beauty of our business: Kim has three generations in it and I have two.

I think another thing is that tradition is also part of the community that you're developing. The test of the builder or an architect is not what we build today; it's when we're gone. My grandkids can drive around and see what I have done... homes that still have the beauty and the value. They have lasted the test of time. That's tradition, and what a great reward to be part of a tradition like Golden Oak.

Leaf: What do you think is one of the most notable impacts of technology on how homes are designed and built these days?
Chris: I think home automation is the number one for us. You could even take that further with energy efficiency and environmental efficiencies with all of the new technology they have now. It's a realm of things, but mainly home automation.
Kim: For example, the lights for one Golden Oak client were raised to only 90% of capacity, so they're saving 10% of that energy and nobody knows the difference.

Derrick Koger of Derrick Builders, Inc.
Leaf: What inspired you to become a builder and to focus on custom homebuilding?
Derrick Koger: Both of my grandfathers were master carpenters. Through my childhood years, I worked summer jobs for them, basically as their laborer. Watching things get built, how they're being built and the work ethic that they showed me all inspired me. The rush of watching a house come from the dirt to the final product was just like, "Wow."

Knowing I wanted to do custom homes - to tailor-fit homes to families - I dove right in. Coming from Central Florida, born and raised here, I was fortunate to have a lot of eyes watching me and a lot of opportunities to prove myself.

Leaf: What's the most valuable lesson you learned on your path to becoming a successful homebuilder?
Derrick: Your word. My grandfather always told me that if my word's good and my work's good, I'll always have work. That's been my motto. My Yes is my Yes and my No is my No. That means to always have integrity. No matter what the price is, no matter what the economy is, no matter who the competition is, buyers are looking for the relationship and trust that integrity brings. We adapt as far as materials and design features, but our philosophy, approach to things and attention to detail has followed the tradition I was taught by my grandfathers and father: it's easier to do it right than it is to do it wrong.

Leaf: Golden Oak homes feature some beautiful interpretations of architectural styles. Tell us your favorite example of architecture in the Walt Disney World® Resort parks and why.
Derrick: When I walk through Magic Kingdom® Park or Epcot® and I see the facades and the intricate detail, they really give you the true essence of how that craftsmanship would have been presented back in their day. To me it's not just a matter of using material and building. The whole success is in the proportions and scale. History tells you how they should be put together, based on thousands of years of figuring that out. I've always been taught that you look back to find the right answers. You don't look forward to try to reinvent the new answers.
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Categories: Builder News, Construction, Homes, Neighborhoods, Golden Oak Leaf
 
Backstory: The Names Behind the Names at Golden Oak View

Backstory: The Names Behind the Names at Golden Oak

October 28, 2011

References to Disney history and lore can be found throughout Golden Oak, including the naming of our community. Here, we spotlight the stories behind the names of our neighborhoods and featured streets.


As you drive down Dream Tree Boulevard, imagine a young Walt Disney sitting beneath his "Dreaming Tree"-the tree in his childhood hometown that provided shade for many hours of daydreaming. Those who live in the Carolwood neighborhood will share the street name of Walt Disney's Holmby Hills, California, home and of the miniature, steam-powered Carolwood Pacific Railroad that Walt built in his backyard. In Silver Lake, the Los Angeles location of Walt and Roy Disney's first large studio, we find the origins of the name for Golden Oak's Silverbrook neighborhood.


The inspiration behind the names of Kimball Trace is equally fascinating.


This charming village neighborhood was named in honor of Ward Kimball, one of Walt Disney's original team of animators and artists known as the "Nine Old Men." During his 38 years with Disney, Kimball brought to life many memorable Disney characters including Jiminy Cricket in "Pinocchio" and Tweedledee and Tweedledum in "Alice in Wonderland." An Academy Award winner, Ward was also an accomplished jazz trombonist and fellow enthusiast of backyard railroads.


Three Kimball Trace streets bear the names of colleagues of Ward's during those formative years at Disney Studios and beyond.


Earle Court is the namesake of Eyvind Earle, an artist who joined Walt Disney Studios in 1953. Eyvind created the look for "Toot, Whistle, Plunk and Boom," an animated short film that won an Academy Award and a Cannes Film Festival Award. His distinctive styling of backgrounds and colors for the classic Disney movie, "Sleeping Beauty," gave the movie its magical, medieval look and earned Eyvind widespread acclaim. Visit Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland and you can admire the dioramas inspired by his original brushwork.


If you know Pluto, then you know the artistry of John Lounsbery, whose surname inspired Lounsberry Circle. John joined Disney's animation team in 1935 and for several years specialized in "Pluto" animated short films. The directing animator of such Disney classic films as "Dumbo," "Alice in Wonderland," "Peter Pan," "Lady and the Tramp," "Sleeping Beauty," "The Jungle Book," "The Aristocats," "Robin Hood," and beloved Winnie the Pooh featurettes, John was named a Disney Legend in 1989.



Another Disney Legend inspired the name of Blaine Court. Blaine Gibson's animator credits include "Fantasia," "Bambi," "Alice in Wonderland," "Peter Pan," "Sleeping Beauty" and "101 Dalmatians." In 1954, Walt discovered Blaine's talent for creating animal sculptures, which led to the artist's trailblazing work in 3-D animation and Audio-Animatronics for Walt's new theme park, Disneyland. As a Walt Disney Imagineer, Blaine contributed to the magic behind such favorite Disney attractions as Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion and the Hall of Presidents, as well as exhibits in the 1964-65 New York World's Fair.

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Categories: Carolwood, Carolwood Reserve, Golden Oak Leaf, Kimball Trace, Neighborhoods, Silverbrook
 
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort Set to Open in 2014 View

Press Release: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort Set to Open in 2014

September 14, 2011

Luxury Resort Coming to Unique Golden Oak Community


September 14, 2011 – Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announced construction will begin this December on the 444-room luxury resort located in Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort, with a target opening date of 2014. Toronto-based Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world's leading luxury hotel brand, acquired the land from Disney in August 2008.


Four Seasons resort will feature several dining venues including a rooftop restaurant with Magic Kingdom views; a spa with 18 treatment rooms; a fitness center; three pools and a "lazy river"; sports facilities including tennis courts, basketball court and climbing wall; recreational centers for children, teens and families; and meeting and event space plus a business center.


The development will encompass the existing Tom Fazio-designed Osprey Ridge 18-hole championship golf course, which will be renovated and subsequently managed by Four Seasons. Four Seasons may also add up to 40 Four Seasons Residence Club units and up to 90 Four Seasons Private Residences. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort is an enclave located within the Golden Oak residential community, created and master-planned by Disney.


Golden Oak is a one-of-a-kind luxury residential resort community offering the unprecedented opportunity to purchase a home at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Especially designed for resort living, Golden Oak provides an entirely new way for families to connect with the world's best known family destination and entertainment brand.


Golden Oak residential sales began in January 2011. Custom, single-family homes are currently under construction and the first residents have recently started moving in to the one-of-a-kind community located at Walt Disney World Resort. Whether from the United States, South America or Great Britain, interested buyers all have something in common: a strong affinity for Walt Disney World Resort and a desire for a retreat where family and friends can enjoy time together creating lifelong memories.


About Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Four Seasons is dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. From elegant surroundings of the finest quality, to caring, highly personalised 24-hour service, Four Seasons embodies a true home away from home for those who know and appreciate the best. The deeply instilled Four Seasons culture is personified in its employees — people who share a single focus and are inspired to offer great service. Founded in 1960, Four Seasons has followed a targeted course of expansion, opening hotels and residences in major city centers and desirable resort destinations around the world. Currently with 85 properties in 35 countries, and more than 50 projects under development, Four Seasons continues to lead the hospitality industry with innovative enhancements, making business travel easier and leisure travel more rewarding.


Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort
Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort brings together family, friends and cherished Disney traditions in a unique, luxury residential resort community of single-family custom homes. To live at Golden Oak is to enjoy a destination experience year round, with distinctive neighborhoods, expansive natural preserves and inviting amenities — including a private clubhouse, concierge-style resident services and Walt Disney World Resort Park offerings. Also planned for the community is Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort, with a golf course, spa and restaurants.


Golden Oak will initially consist of three types of single-family homes: Village, Estate and Grand Estate Homes. Village Homes will capture the romantic look of a Mediterranean village on homesites up to one-quarter acre. Estate Homes, on approximately one-half acre homesites, will offer a variety of architectural styles including Tuscan, Spanish Revival, Venetian, Italianate, Dutch Colonial and Island Colonial. At up to three-quarters acre in size, Grand Estate Homes will include architectural styles consistent with Estate Homes and will accommodate the needs of large families. Home prices start at $1.4 million.


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Categories: Homes, VIP, Four Seasons, Neighborhoods, Tours, Construction, Events, Golden Oak Leaf
 
Early Buyers Prepare to Move in to Golden Oak Homes View

Press Release: Early Buyers Prepare to Move in to Golden Oak Homes; Three Furnished Showcase Homes Open for Tours

August 24, 2011

Homes Fulfill Common Desire for Family Retreat in Disney's Unique Residential Resort Community


Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Aug. 24, 2011) — For most people, a visit to Walt Disney World® is reason to celebrate. But that wasn't quite enough for two families from Oklahoma and West Virginia.


"I wanted to be the grandma who lives at Walt Disney World®!" says Jill, who along with her husband, Jack, was one of the first families to purchase land and build a home in Golden Oak*, Disney's unique residential resort community. "Who do you think the kids will want to visit the most?"


Karen, who bought a home with her husband, Kevin, had a similar feeling about Golden Oak: "Disney's just outside the gate, but it's quiet inside. We know this will make our kids and grandkids happy!"


Karen and Kevin will move into their Spanish-Revival inspired home in the next two months. The home is located in Silverbrook, which features 19 home sites of approximately one-half acre each. Residents can savor moments of quiet repose alongside conservation areas or water features, or easily stroll to community amenities and activities at the Summerhouse, which is currently under construction.


Jack and Jill will move into their Tuscan-inspired vacation home in January, with plans to split their time between Florida and Oklahoma. But, as Jill says jokingly, "Jack is a little concerned that he may lose me to Florida for most of the year!" Their home is located in Kimball Trace, a charming Tuscan-inspired village nestled between the tranquil waters of the lagoon and the cool shade of the natural preserves. Varying in design and style, each home demonstrates the luxury lifestyle that Golden Oak has to offer — including subtle Disney-inspired touches.


Kimball Trace also features the first three showcase village homes in Golden Oak, which were recently completed and furnished, and are now open for tours (by appointment only):

  • Inspiring to all who enter the front door, Villa d'Este by Goehring & Morgan showcases the exquisite view of the outdoor areas. Featuring approximately 3,664 square feet of indoor living space, this home offers four bedrooms, four en-suite bathrooms and one powder room, a gathering room with incredible beamed ceilings and a separate study. The owner's suite overlooks a long view of the courtyard areas and pond. Subtle, yet elegant details of this home, such as the knotty alder front door; the interior and exterior ironwork; the clay tile imported from France; and, the authentic stone on the exterior elevation, help to create a truly exceptional showcase home.
  • Casa di Lusso by ISSA Homes is as beautiful as it is timeless. This two-story home features approximately 4,272 square feet of indoor living space where almost all rooms have a generous view of the pond. This home is inspired by a creatively designed farmhouse, and is open and airy. Featuring four bedrooms, four en-suite bathrooms, one powder room and a generous area for entertaining, this home is one of a kind. One is immediately drawn to the large outdoor living space and generously sized pool and spa.
  • An architecturally inspiring home, Da Vinci by Cahill showcases approximately 4,044 square feet of indoor living area. This home features four bedrooms — all with en-suite bathrooms and one of which is a private guest suite — an additional study/guest bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, one powder room and a family room and kitchen designed for bringing the family together as well as entertaining. The well-appointed and large owner's suite features a walk -in closet and is privately located on the first floor, surrounded by a beautiful courtyard filled with flowers and palm trees.

CHARMING VILLAGE SETTINGS
Both Kimball Trace and Silverbrook are within neighborly reach of Summerhouse, Golden Oak's planned 16,000 square-foot residential clubhouse designed by Walt Disney Imagineers. Currently under construction and scheduled for opening in 2012, Summerhouse has been planned to include indoor and outdoor dining areas, a lounge with wine storage and full bar, a family room with gaming area, a demonstration kitchen for guest chef appearances, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness facility, locker rooms and pool with towel service. An outdoor fire pit, courtyard, function lawn and park areas are planned for year-round recreation. Programs are anticipated to include kitchen demonstrations by Disney chefs, seasonal parties and family events hosted by Golden Oak Resident Services professionals.


Other neighborhoods currently under construction in the one-of-a-kind community located at Walt Disney World Resort include:

  • Carolwood Reserve: A limited offering of eight premium custom-home sites, all generously sized at approximately three-quarters acre each. Residents here will enjoy serene natural, golf course or water views.
  • Carolwood: The natural preserves surrounding this lovely neighborhood offer a scenic and private setting. At up to threequarters acre in size, each of Carolwood's 17 grand estate custom-home sites can amply accommodate multigenerational families.


THE DISNEY CONNECTION
Families who close on the purchase of a homesite or completed home in Golden Oak before December 31, 2011 will receive one complimentary five-year Golden Oak VIP Pass for the homebuyer, providing admission for the homebuyer and up to four guests. The special Golden Oak VIP Pass will allow admission to all four Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks, DisneyQuest indoor interactive theme park and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex every day of the year with no block-out dates. Also included is complimentary parking for one car and discounts up to 20 percent on select merchandise purchased at select Walt Disney World Resort parks or Downtown Disney area locations.


Every homeowner at Golden Oak will be a member of the private social and recreational Golden Oak Club. As part of the club membership, homeowners will receive Door-to-Park transportation, complimentary merchandise delivery to their home in Golden Oak, special golf services, and access to the Extra Magic Hours benefit at Walt Disney World (early-or after-hours access to one of the four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks daily). Disney-designed holiday décor, golf program and in-park special event tickets will be available for an additional fee.


Additionally, Resident Services at Golden Oak will bring Disney's personal guest service culture directly to residents and guests. A dedicated onsite team at Golden Oak will help arrange personal, residential and resort requests such as move-in services, pre-arrival and post-departure home maintenance services, travel and private transportation, holiday home décor, grocery shopping, VIP tours and more.


Jill says her family is excited to experience all that Golden Oak has to offer. "We are counting the moments until we turn the key at Golden Oak and say 'Welcome to our Disney home!'"


GOLDEN OAK at WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT
Golden Oak will initially consist of three types of single-family homes: Village, Estate and Grand Estate Homes. Village Homes will capture the romantic look of a Mediterranean village on homesites up to one-quarter acre. Estate Homes, on approximately one-half acre homesites, will offer a variety of architectural styles including Tuscan, Spanish Revival, Venetian, Italianate, Dutch Colonial and Island Colonial. At up to three-quarters acre in size, Grand Estate Homes will include architectural styles consistent with Estate Homes and will accommodate the needs of large families. Home prices start at $1.4 million.


Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort brings together family, friends and cherished Disney traditions in a unique, luxury residential resort community of single-family custom homes. To live at Golden Oak is to enjoy a destination experience year round, with distinctive neighborhoods, expansive natural preserves and inviting amenities—including a private clubhouse, concierge-style resident services and Walt Disney World Resort park offerings. Also planned for the community is Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, with a golf course, spa and restaurants.

*Reflects current development plans which are subject to change without notice. Ancillary amenities, privileges and services charged separately.


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Categories: Homes, Neighborhoods, VIP, Builder News, Construction, Carolwood, Kimball Trace, Silverbrook, Carolwood Reserve, Disney Connection, Resident Services, Tours, Summerhouse
 
Early Buyers at Golden Oak Get VIP Benefits View

Press Release: Early Buyers at Golden Oak Get VIP Benefits at Walt Disney World® Resort

June 09, 2011

New Residential Resort Community at Walt Disney World® Resort Announces Disney Amenities for Homebuyers; Breaks Ground on Clubhouse


Lake Buena Vista, Florida (June 9, 2011) — Early homebuyers in Disney's unique residential resort community Golden Oak* at Walt Disney World® Resort, will receive Disney VIP park passes to Walt Disney World® Resort with no block-out dates, free parking, personalized service when making dining reservations at Walt Disney World® Resort restaurants, access to special early or late theme park hours each day and select merchandise discounts.


Sales began in January and homes are currently under construction in the one-of-a-kind community located at Walt Disney World® Resort. Strong interest from buyers prompted Golden Oak to make available most of the estate, grand estate and village homesites in the initial phase of the 980-acre community. Whether from the United States, South America or Great Britain, interested buyers all have something in common: a strong affinity for Walt Disney World® Resort and a desire for a retreat where family and friends can enjoy time together creating lifelong memories.


Families who close on the purchase of a homesite or completed home in the exceptional luxury community before December 31, 2011, will receive one complimentary five-year VIP Pass for the homebuyer, providing admission for the Passholder and up to four guests. The special Golden Oak VIP Pass will allow admission to all four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, Water Parks, DisneyQuest® Indoor Interactive Theme Park and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex every day of the year with no block-out dates. Also included are complimentary parking for one car and discounts up to 20% on select merchandise purchased at select Walt Disney World® Resort Parks or Downtown Disney® area locations.


"The dream of families buying homes at Golden Oak is unique access to Disney," said Page Pierce, vice president, Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort. "We're excited to offer these incredible VIP benefits to homeowners in what is a truly one-of-a-kind community."


GROUNDBREAKING ON THE NEW SUMMERHOUSE
Every homeowner at Golden Oak will be a member of the private social and recreational Golden Oak Club. As part of their Club Membership, homeowners will receive Door-to-Park transportation, complimentary merchandise delivery to their home in Golden Oak, special golf services, and access to the Extra Magic Hours Benefit at Walt Disney World® (early- or after-hours access to one of the four Walt Disney World® Resort Theme Parks daily). Disney-designed holiday décor, golf program and in-park special event tickets will be available for an additional fee.


In addition to the first custom homes, construction is underway for Summerhouse, Golden Oak's 16,000 squarefoot residential clubhouse designed by Walt Disney Imagineers for club members and their guests. Located in the heart of the community, current development plans for Summerhouse include indoor and outdoor dining areas, lounge with wine storage and full bar, family room with gaming area, demonstration kitchen for guest chef appearances, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness facility, locker rooms and pool with towel service. An outdoor fire pit, courtyard, function lawn, and park areas are planned for year-round recreation. Programs are anticipated to include kitchen demonstrations by Disney chefs, seasonal parties and family events hosted by Golden Oak Resident Services professionals.


Resident Services at Golden Oak will bring Disney's personal guest service culture directly to residents and guests. A dedicated onsite team at Golden Oak will help arrange personal, residential and resort requests such as move-in services, pre-arrival and post-departure home maintenance services, travel and private transportation, holiday home décor, grocery shopping, VIP tours and more.


GOLDEN OAK at WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT
Golden Oak will initially consist of three types of single-family homes: Village, Estate and Grand Estate Homes. Village Homes will capture the romantic look of a Mediterranean village on homesites up to one-quarter acre. Estate Homes, on approximately one-half acre homesites, will offer a variety of architectural styles including Tuscan, Spanish Revival, Venetian, Italianate, Dutch Colonial and Island Colonial. At up to three-quarters acre in size, Grand Estate Homes will include architectural styles consistent with Estate Homes and will accommodate the needs of large families. Home prices start at $1.4 million.


Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort brings together family, friends and cherished Disney traditions in a unique, luxury residential resort community of single-family custom homes. To live at Golden Oak is to enjoy a destination experience year round, with distinctive neighborhoods, expansive natural preserves and inviting amenities—including a private clubhouse, concierge-style resident services and Walt Disney World ® Resort Park offerings. Also planned for the community is Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, with a golf course, spa and restaurants.

*Reflects current development plans which are subject to change without notice. Ancillary amenities, privileges and services charged separately.



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Categories: Homes, Neighborhoods, VIP, Carolwood, Kimball Trace, Silverbrook, Carolwood Reserve, Summerhouse, Resident Services, Disney Connection, Amenities, Construction
 
Welcome to the Neighborhood View

Welcome to the Neighborhood

June 09, 2011

When Walt Disney World® Parks & Resorts announced that construction had begun on a new residential resort community at Walt Disney World® Resort, many wondered about who would be living in such an exciting neighborhood. Enter Jack and Jill (yes, those are their real names) and their three children from Oklahoma, one of the first families to purchase a home at Golden Oak. The Disney brand has long been a part of their family, but let's hear about it from Jill, in her own words.


Leaf: How long has your family been coming to Walt Disney World Resort?
Jill: Our first trip to Walt Disney World with our kids in 1994 was the real start of our Disney journey as a family. We'd just recovered from chicken pox (barely). My oldest, Casey, turned 5 the month before, Cameron was 3 and Claire was 10 months old. We were rookies! Showed up with a hotel room and a Park pass with no additional planning. We had a blast!

Leaf: When did your family first fall in love with Walt Disney World Resort?
Jill: We didn't return until 1997 when we took the whole family to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for ten nights. Walt Disney World had just started Magic Kingdom® E-Ride Nights and we stayed in the parks until 3:00am! We had an eight, six, and a four year old by that time. Very few people were at the Park and we were in heaven. My oldest rode Space Mountain® over and over and over — and decided to hit the sack early. At 3:30am, here comes my husband and two kids, Claire on Jack's shoulders, skipping and singing down the hall. By the end of the trip we had joined Disney Vacation Club®.

Leaf: Tell us about your family.
Jill: We were blessed with three great kids. Casey is a college senior majoring in Business with a passion for and career goals in sports. Cameron is at a Florida University majoring in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Theme Park and Attraction Management. He will graduate early after the summer of 2012 and is contemplating getting his Master's before going full time with Disney. He has worked at the Hall of Presidents, Disney's Hollywood Studios® turnstiles and auto plaza, and is currently training for Guest Relations at Magic Kingdom Park. Claire, the baby, just graduated from high school and will be attending college in Florida as well. Her love of animals is probably where her future will take her. She shows American Saddle bred horses on a National level.

Leaf: What did your family say when they found out you were purchasing a home at Golden Oak?
Jill: Everyone was so excited! Since I'm going to have two kids down there it made a lot of sense. I will be the grandma that lives at Walt Disney World. Who will they want to visit the most?

Leaf: What feature of Golden Oak is your family most excited about?
Jill: Location, Location, Location. As Disney Vacation Club members, we never anticipated buying in Orlando, but how do you pass up an opportunity to live at Walt Disney World? Not this Disney-loving family!

Leaf: Tell us about the home you are building in Golden Oak.
Jill: We are building a village home in Kimball Trace, so it will have a Tuscan design consistent with the rest of the neighborhood. We have been very lucky; Cahill Homes, our builder, has been so great, keeping us abreast of everything going on and the progress being made. We are going for comfortable, casual, and staying with the Tuscan feel throughout. We want people to feel welcome to come in and put their feet up!

Leaf: What about Golden Oak appealed to your family?
Jill: Since I make about five trips a year to Walt Disney World, of course the location was appealing. The weather is a big factor, also. Jack is a little concerned about losing me to Florida for most of the year since he is not retired. I would like to have a nice balance of both Oklahoma and Florida. I am also looking forward to holidays with extended family here.

Leaf: What will be the first thing you will do when you move in?
Jill: Sit in my courtyard and listen for the train whistle from the Magic Kingdom!

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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Neighborhoods, VIP
 
Early Buyers at Golden Oak Get VIP Access at Walt Disney World&reg; Resort View

Early Buyers at Golden Oak Get VIP Access at Walt Disney World® Resort

June 09, 2011

The Disney Connection is our residents' go-to resource for creating an ideal Walt Disney World® Resort experience. From the Theme Parks, Water Parks, golf and in-park special events to dedicated transportation, merchandise discounts and more, the Disney Connection allows residents to indulge in an expansive array of resort offerings and services. New to the Disney Connection is the Golden Oak VIP Pass. For each closing on a homesite or completed home by December 31, 2011, the household will receive a complimentary Golden Oak VIP Pass valid for five years, providing admission to Walt Disney World® Parks for the Passholder and up to four guests per day. The Pass will allow admission to all four Walt Disney WorldTheme Parks, Water Parks, DisneyQuest® Indoor Interactive Theme Park and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex every day of the year with no block-out dates. Also included is complimentary parking for one car and discounts up to 20% on select merchandise purchased at select Walt Disney World® Theme Parks or Downtown Disney® area locations.


Here's how it works:
The household is issued up to five Passes, each with the individual Passholder's name on it. Only one Pass may be used in a day for initial entry into a Park. However, those joining the Passholder can be other Passholders or guests for a total of five people entering the Park per calendar day. Each of the four guests will be issued re-admission tickets valid for same day re-entry and Park Hopper® Option. Passholders must show a valid Photo ID that matches the name printed on the back of the pass to gain admission for themselves and their guests and the Passes are non-transferable. Also, Passholders and their guests must be together for first time entry.


The pass also includes discounts up to 20% on select merchandise at select Walt Disney World® Resort or Downtown Disney area. Homeowners may also take advantage of complimentary merchandise delivery to their Golden Oak home, special golf services, and access to the Extra Magic Hours Benefit at Walt Disney World®, all as part of the Disney Connection. The Pass will be available only to Golden Oak homeowners for purchase on an annual basis.


View the full program details

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Categories: Disney Connection, Golden Oak Leaf, VIP
 
From Your Front Door to Ours View

From Your Front Door to Ours

June 09, 2011

Imagine spending a whole, fun-filled day at the Parks with your family. The fireworks show has just ended, you're heading out of the Park with your little one sleeping in your arms, dreaming about the thrills of the day. As you exit the Park, beginning to wonder where you parked your car, you smile as you see the mini-coach pulling up to take you to your Golden Oak home.


Residents will be able to enjoy this extraordinary convenience with Door-to-Park transportation around Walt Disney World® Resort each day from park opening to nightly fireworks. With just a call to one of our Resident Services hosts, a shuttle or mini-coach will arrive at your Golden Oak home front door, ready to take you to any of the four Walt Disney World® Resort parks or other select Walt Disney World® Resort locations. When you are ready to head home, or to another park perhaps, the Door-to-Park shuttle and mini coach service will be on its way to take you to your next destination.


Some of the drop-off and pick-up locations include:

  • Magic Kingdom® Park (via Transportation and Ticket Center)
  • Epcot® main entrance
  • Disney's Hollywood Studios® main entrance
  • Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park main entrance
  • Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park main entrance
  • Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park main entrance
  • Downtown Disney® Marketplace
  • Downtown Disney® West Side

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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Resident Services, VIP
 
Mickey and Donald Are Digging It View

Mickey and Donald Are Digging It

June 09, 2011

Some real characters helped us kick off the construction of Golden Oak's private clubhouse, Summerhouse. What will be the social hub of this remarkable community, Summerhouse is slated for completion in summer of 2012.

The private clubhouse will include a private dining area with demonstration kitchen, state-of-the-art fitness facility, Resident Services desk, lounge with full bar, family room and gaming area — and that is only the inside. Beyond the doors of Summerhouse will be a heated pool, a casual walk-up restaurant and bar, outdoor fire pit, courtyard, event lawn and park areas for year-round recreation.

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Categories: Amenities, Events, Golden Oak Leaf, Resident Services, Summerhouse, VIP
 
Visiting Walt Disney World Resort? View

Visiting Walt Disney World® Resort?

June 09, 2011

Wild Africa Trek is an immersive experience that offers Disney's Animal Kingdom® Guests a unique opportunity to enjoy unexplored areas of the Harambe Reserve and have an "up close and personal" experience with intriguing African wildlife species.

This three-hour experience, consisting of a small, intimate group of up to 12 guests is led by specially trained guides and begins in the Safi River valley where expedition harnesses will allow Guests to cross precarious rope bridges and enjoy up-close views of Nile hippos and crocodiles. The journey continues along the edge of a magnificent, wide-open African-like savanna, where Guests board a specialized vehicle to enjoy an exclusive safari, including a stop at a private safari camp. This 30-minute respite allows Guests to continue premium animal viewing and enjoy African-inspired food samplings.

A photographer will capture memories while guests enjoy the Wild Africa Trek experience. At the end of the trek, Guests will be sent a CD digital copy of all photos to their home, which is are included in the ticket price.

It's a way to experience the exclusivity and thrills of a safari adventure right in the heart of Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park.

Please note that Guests must be ambulatory and have sufficient stamina and endurance to experience this walking and climbing adventure. For those Guests who wish to participate in a less physical journey or a wheelchair accessible trek, they may contact Wild Africa Trek operations at 407-938-1373 for an alternative offering.

A portion of the Tour price will be donated to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund.

Call (407) WDW-TOUR or (407) 939-8687 to book.

Wild Africa Trek is not included with standard admission to Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Each tour is limited to 12 Guests, age 8 and over. Valid Theme Park ticket required. Guests 8-18 must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Other restrictions apply.

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Categories: VIP
 
Breaking Ground and Building Dreams View

Breaking Ground and Building Dreams

February 25, 2011

We're pleased to say that a number of homes are emerging in the Silverbrook and Kimball Trace neighborhoods. Just as sales are beginning at Golden Oak, the high quality designs of the community's custom homebuilders are quickly taking form.


The exceptional craftsmanship going into each of these homes is visible even as they are being built. The three showcase village homes in Kimball Trace are anticipated to be completed in Summer 2011, and the initial four estate homes in Silverbrook are planned to be complete in late 2011.


The custom homebuilders for the Golden Oak Village Homes are CAHILL, Goehring & Morgan Construction, Inc., and Issa Homes. The custom homebuilders for Golden Oak Estate Homes and Grand Estate Homes are Derrick Builders, Inc., Jones-Clayton Construction, J. Richard Watson Construction Company, Inc., and Ray Coudriet Builder, Inc.

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Categories: Homes, Construction, Golden Oak Leaf, Builder News, Carolwood, Carolwood Reserve, Kimball Trace, Silverbrook
 
Golden Oak In the News View

Golden Oak In the News

February 25, 2011

Homes are currently under construction in the one-of-a-kind community located at Walt Disney World® Resort. Strong interest from buyers prompted Golden Oak to make available all estate and grand estate homesites in the initial phase of the 980-acre community along with select village homesites. Whether from the United States, South America or Great Britain, interested buyers all have something in common: a strong affinity for Walt Disney World Resort and a desire for a retreat where family and friends can enjoy time together creating lifelong memories.

Golden Oak In the News
New York Daily News
February 25, 2011
The Closer: Flips and Splits of New York's real estate community

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Categories: Homes, Construction
 
Magic Finds a Lifelong Home at Walt Disney World Resort View

Magic Finds a Lifelong Home at Walt Disney World® Resort

February 25, 2011

Which vacation memories are most enduring and why? In 2010, Disney asked YPartnership to survey thousands of North Americans to determine the answer. The result—nine out of ten parents revealed that vacations with immediate family are the most memorable and that they plan vacations with the specific goal of making lasting memories.


The creation of cherished family memories has long been part of the Disney park experience and we have continued to build on these ideals. Our guests told us they would like to see a unique place at Walt Disney World® Resort designed as an extraordinary getaway for friends and family alike. We listened and the result is Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort.


This year, you'll see Disney Parks celebrating the special times family and friends have together—and at Golden Oak, we're creating a most memorable and exquisite resort community, where your family can create new traditions for years to come.

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Categories: VIP, Golden Oak Leaf
 
A First Look at Estate Home Design Concepts View

A First Look at Estate Home Design Concepts

February 25, 2011

A neighborhood accommodating one-of-a-kind estate homes, Silverbrook can truly be your personal retreat. Builders renowned for extraordinary customer service are working with architects to provide working concepts that will inspire and excite you—from spacious courtyards to stunning facades and indoor and outdoor spaces that naturally flow together.

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Categories: Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods, Silverbrook
 
Connecting Golden Oak and Disney View

Connecting Golden Oak and Disney

February 25, 2011

Living at Golden Oak means more than owning a home at Walt Disney World® Resort; it's an amazing blend of relaxation, Disney magic and new family traditions. At the heart of this exceptional community experience is a special collection of services and offerings that make up The Disney Connection. Residents and their guests will find The Disney Connection a seamless way to experience even more family fun at Walt Disney World® Resort. Here are three highlights:


Golden Oak residents and guests will get royal treatment with "Door-to-Park" transportation; from their front door to any of the four Walt Disney World® Resort theme parks* or other select Disney locations. From park opening to nightly fireworks, the shuttle and mini coach service will be dedicated to residents and their guests, offering exceptional convenience.


Homebuyers who close on a homesite or a completed home by December 31, 2011 will receive four complimentary Disney Premium Annual Passes valid for five years to enjoy the magic of Disney! With this pass, you will have access to each of the Walt Disney World® Resort theme parks, water parks and DisneyQuest® Indoor Interactive Theme Park. Passholders also receive valuable discounts on select options such as dining, merchandise, recreation, and tours.


Residents and guests will also be able to enjoy additional time in Disney theme parks to enjoy select attractions with the Extra Magic Hours benefit.


*Residents will be dropped off at the Magic Kingdom® Park Transportation & Ticket Center.

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Categories: Disney Connection, Golden Oak Leaf, Homes, Neighborhoods, VIP, Amenities
 
Press Release: Custom Homebuilders Purchasing First Homesites View

Press Release: Custom Homebuilders Purchasing First Homesites, Signaling Upcoming Sales at Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort

September 28, 2010

Lake Buena Vista, Fla., (September 28, 2010)— Seven prestigious homebuilders have been selected by Disney to design and construct the luxury homes in the unique resort community of Golden Oak* at Walt Disney World® Resort. Each of the builders is purchasing initial individual homesites, allowing construction of the first showcase and spec homes to begin immediately.


Since Disney announced the project in June, the company has seen significant interest from potential buyers. Inquiries have come from as far away as Brazil and England — and domestically from New York to Texas to California. The selected builders are currently designing home plans in preparation for the launch of homesite sales later this year.


"The homebuilders for Golden Oak have impressive track records of success and dedication to the highest level of quality," said Page Pierce, vice president, Disney Resort Real Estate Development. "We look forward to seeing their beautiful homes come to life in Golden Oak through their fine craftsmanship and signature styles."


Golden Oak will initially consist of three types of single-family homes: Village, Estate and Grand Estate Homes. Village Homes will capture the romantic look of a Mediterranean village on homesites up to one-quarter acre. Estate Homes, on approximately one-half acre homesites, will offer a variety of architectural styles including Tuscan, Spanish Revival, Venetian, Italianate, Dutch Colonial and Island Colonial. At up to three-quarters acre in size, Grand Estate Homes will include architectural styles consistent with Estate Homes and will accommodate the needs of large families.


The custom homebuilders for the Golden Oak Village Homes are CAHILL (http://cahillhomes.com/), Goehring & Morgan Construction, Inc. (http://www.goehringandmorgan.com/), and Issa Homes, (http://issahomes.com/).


The custom homebuilders for Golden Oak Estate Homes and Grand Estate Homes are Derrick Builders, Inc. (www.derrickbuilders.com), Jones-Clayton Construction (www.jones-clayton.com), J. Richard Watson Construction Company, Inc. (www.jrichardwatson.com), and Ray Coudriet Builder, Inc. (www.raycoudriet.com).


These experienced custom builders are creating residential design concepts for interested buyers and showcase and spec homes, consistent with the unique architectural aesthetic of the Golden Oak community. Disney conducted a rigorous process to select the homebuilders for Golden Oak. Superlative experience building custom luxury homes in high-end Central Florida communities, expertise in the specific architectural styles planned for Golden Oak and a demonstrated reputation for quality design and construction were some of the criteria used in the selection process. Golden Oak may invite additional builders in the future, as the community and demand grow.


WHAT'S IN A NAME?
Disney also unveiled the handcrafted sign at the entrance to Golden Oak, the result of many hours of artistry. The name, Golden Oak, is inspired by Walt Disney's Golden Oak Ranch in Newhall, California, where some say gold nuggets were found in 1842, a filming location for segments of the Mickey Mouse Club in the 1950's. In addition to the ranch's official use for The Walt Disney Company, the ranch served as a place of respite and relaxation for Walt and his family. Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort will offer families that same sense of magic and enchantment that Walt believed to be so important. Beyond the literal connection to Disney's Golden Oak Ranch, the iconic oak tree symbolizes the family, stability, and heritage that this community will encourage. The tree also pays subtle homage to Walt's "Dreaming Tree," the tree in his childhood hometown that provided shade for his many hours of daydreaming.


Walt Disney Parks and Resorts
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts are where families experience and enjoy the magic of Disney's beloved characters and where dreams come true. More than 50 years ago, Walt Disney created a new kind of entertainment families could experience together, immersed in detailed atmospheres and vibrant storytelling. His vision now includes a collection of five of the world's leading family vacation destinations - Disneyland® Resort, Anaheim, Calif.; Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.; Tokyo Disney Resort, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan; Disneyland Paris, Marne-la-Vallée, France; and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, located on Lantau Island. In addition, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts includes the world-class Disney Cruise Line; Disney Vacation Club, with 10 resorts and more than 450,000 members; Adventures by Disney, a guided group vacation experience to some of the world's most popular destinations; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions.


Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort
Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort is a luxury, master-planned gated community being developed at one of the most extraordinary family vacation destinations in the world. This one-of-a-kind resort development will feature custom homes with world-class architecture, surrounded by Florida's natural environment. Residents will enjoy elite resident services, privileges at Walt Disney World Resort and access to select amenities at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.


*Reflects current development plans which are subject to change without notice. Ancillary amenities, privileges and services charged separately.


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Categories: Homes, Neighborhoods, VIP, Builder News, Construction, Carolwood, Kimball Trace, Silverbrook, Carolwood Reserve
 
Press Release: Disney Unveils Unique Residential Resort Community at Walt Disney World View

Press Release: Disney Unveils Unique Residential Resort Community at Walt Disney World

June 23, 2010

Golden Oak Will Offer Luxury, Single-Family Custom Homes for Purchase


Lake Buena Vista, Fla., (June 23, 2010) — Today Disney unveiled Golden Oak*, a one-of-a-kind luxury residential resort community offering the unprecedented opportunity to purchase a home at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Especially designed for resort living, Golden Oak will provide an entirely new way for families to connect with the world's best known family destination and entertainment brand.


"We have a range of options for Guests at all price points to enjoy the Walt Disney World Resort. But Golden Oak is something totally new: a residential resort community, right in the heart of the magic," said Matt Kelly, vice president, Disney Resort Real Estate Development. "Golden Oak will be a place where families can come together and make memories for generations to come--with Disney World right at their doorstep."


Golden Oak will offer a limited collection of single family custom homes priced between $1.5 and $8 million, with fewer than 30 home sites available for sale this year. Designed by Disney's famed Imagineers, the gated community will feature intimate neighborhoods and amenities created with everyone in the family in mind. Disney's well-known attention to detail is visible in every park, pathway and the custom-design of the proposed private clubhouse. Expansive conservation areas comprise almost half of the entire 980 acre footprint.


The proposed private clubhouse, concierge services and collection of Walt Disney World Resort benefits will bring Disney's guest service culture directly to Golden Oak residents. As previously announced, Golden Oak is planned to include Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, combining Disney's renowned service and hospitality with Four Seasons' defining standard of excellence. Golden Oak plans to offer residents access to select Four Seasons' future amenities including the full service spa, restaurants, golf course and event space.


Initially, Golden Oak will consist of three types of single family homes. Village Homes will capture the romantic look of a Mediterranean village on home sites up to one-quarter acre. Estate Homes, on approximately one-half acre home sites, will offer a variety of architectural styles including Tuscan, Spanish Revival, Venetian, Italianate, Dutch Colonial and Island Colonial. At up to three-quarters acre in size, Grand Estate Homes will include architectural styles consistent with Estate Homes and will accommodate the needs of large families. Homeowners will use one of Golden Oak's select custom homebuilders to build the home of their dreams.


Golden Oak will use a Priority Reservation List for potential homebuyers with an interest in purchasing a home. A position is secured on the list in the order in which a signed Lot Release Priority Agreement and a refundable $25,000 deposit is received. Deposits are now being accepted, with the first completed homes projected for 2011. At build-out, Golden Oak is anticipated to include approximately 450 homes.


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Walt Disney Parks and Resorts
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts are where families experience and enjoy the magic of Disney's beloved characters and where dreams come true. More than 50 years ago, Walt Disney created a new kind of entertainment families could experience together, immersed in detailed atmospheres and vibrant storytelling. His vision now includes a collection of five of the world's leading family vacation destinations - Disneyland® Resort, Anaheim, Calif.; Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.; Tokyo Disney Resort, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan; Disneyland Paris, Marne-la-Vallée, France; and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, located on Lantau Island. In addition, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts includes the world-class Disney Cruise Line; Disney Vacation Club, with 10 resorts and more than 450,000 members; Adventures by Disney, a guided group vacation experience to some of the world's most popular destinations; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions.


Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Four Seasons is dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. From elegant surroundings of the finest quality, to caring, highly personalised 24-hour service, Four Seasons embodies a true home away from home for those who know and appreciate the best. The deeply instilled Four Seasons culture is personified in its employees — people who share a single focus and are inspired to offer great service. Founded in 1960, Four Seasons has followed a targeted course of expansion, opening hotels and residences in major city centres and desirable resort destinations around the world. Currently with 83 properties in 35 countries, and more than 40 projects under development, Four Seasons continues to lead the hospitality industry with innovative enhancements, making business travel easier and leisure travel more rewarding. For more information on Four Seasons, visit http://press.fourseasons.com.


*Reflects current development plans which are subject to change without notice. Ancillary amenities, privileges and services charged separately.


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This does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy, real estate to residents of any state or jurisdiction where prohibited by law, or where prior registration is required but has not yet been fulfilled.

THE STORY OF GOLDEN OAK

The story of Golden Oak begins in true once-upon-a time fashion. As a youth in Missouri, Walt Disney would lie beneath the spreading branches of his "dreaming tree" and let his imagination run free. It was here that Walt's talents for storytelling and fantasy began to take shape into some of the world's most beloved characters.

Years later, a scenic ranch in California's Placerita Canyon proved an equally inspiring location for filming segments of The Mickey Mouse Club TV show. Walt Disney Productions purchased portions of the property in 1959 and, over the years, acquired more than 900 acres to reserve its quiet vistas for TV and movie productions and protect its harmony with nature. In fact, Walt and his family spent time relaxing and playing on the ranch.

The name of this ranch? Golden Oak, in honor of a storied tree there, under which some say gold nuggets had been found in 1842. From these illustrious origins, the legacy continues with Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort.

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